First glimpse of new artwork commissioned by council for Milton Keynes riverside
A new bronze scuplture representing natural forms is to be unveiled at the side of a city river.
Residents and visitors are invited to gather along the River Ouzel in Oakgrove on June 4 from 5pm to 7pm, to celebrate the opening of ‘Nobody Lives by the Grid’.
Created by artist Ivan Morison, developed with long-term collaborator Heather Peak, the piece was commissioned by Milton Keynes City Council in partnership with The Parks Trust.
The openinglevent will bring people together to explore the installation alongside its riverside setting. Shaped by ideas and input from the local community, working in close collaboration with Oakgrove Primary School, the artwork reflects the community and the local natural environment, creating a shared space for everyone to connect, pause and experience the landscape in a new way.
It features a series of striking bronze sculptures inspired by everyday forms. It explores themes of community, ecology and imagination, while encouraging reflection on how public spaces can be shared and enjoyed.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Jane Carr, said: “I’m looking forward to seeing people come together to celebrate this new artwork. Nobody Lives by the Grid has been shaped by the community and creates a welcoming and inclusive space where people can meet, spend time and enjoy being outdoors. It’s a brilliant example of how art can bring communities together and enhance our public spaces.”
Nobody Lives by the Grid will join more than 270 public artworks across Milton Keynes, reflecting the city’s long-term commitment to commissioning public art.